Michael Aderogba, a resident of Igboho, has raised an alarm following a harrowing attempt by community elders to subject his daughter, Omobola, to forced Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The intervention of alert neighbors reportedly rescued the young girl during an alleged ritual attempt led by the family head (Olori Ebi), Rasak Aderogba.
The incident occurred on March 28, 2026, in the rural Oorelope Local Government Area.
Mr. Aderogba revealed that he and his wife have faced persistent pressure from traditionalists to comply with the practice.
“We have always refused. We believe no tradition should put our children’s health and dignity at risk,” he stated.
A witness, identified as Moses, described the moment the rescue began. After hearing unusual, persistent crying from a nearby compound, he investigated and discovered elderly men and women preparing for the procedure.
“I immediately started shouting and calling other neighbors. When people began to gather, those involved quickly left,” Moses said.
When contacted for comment, the Olori Ebi, Rasak Aderogba, dismissed the matter as a family issue before terminating the call. Subsequent attempts to reach him were unsuccessful.
Despite the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, which criminalizes FGM in Nigeria, enforcement remains a challenge in rural areas where cultural beliefs override legal protections.
UNICEF reports that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of FGM globally, with over 20 million survivors.
Health experts continue to warn that the practice offers no medical benefits and carries severe risks, including hemorrhage, childbirth complications, and lifelong psychological trauma.
Michael Aderogba remains hopeful that by speaking out, he can inspire other parents to protect their children from similar harm.